Matt Elam was second on Florida's team in tackles and led the Gators with four interceptions. / Kim Klement, USA TODAY Sports

by David Jones, USA TODAY Sports

by David Jones, USA TODAY Sports

NEW ORLEANS - Defensive back Matt Elam and defensive lineman Sharrif Floyd both announced they are leaving after their junior years for the NFL after Florida's 33-23 loss to Louisville in the Sugar Bowl.

"It's always been my dream to play in the NFL and I want to take care of my family,'' said Elam, an All-American safety who was expected to depart.

Asked about Florida's future, Elam, who led the team with four interceptions and was second in tackles, said there are "a lot'' of other defensive backs who will keep the Gators strong on that side of the ball.

Floyd said he never really made a final decision until after the game, saying he wanted to focus on the bowl.

"I was focused on my team and the games that we had left to play,'' Floyd said.

Floyd also got some All-America mention. He led Florida in tackles for loss with 13, including two sacks in the Sugar Bowl.

Both Elam and Floyd are possible first-round picks. Floyd is currently No. 24 on the Big Board of ESPN analyst Mel Kiper.

"It's a blessing that I'm going to get a chance to do what a lot of players want to do,'' Floyd added. "My dream is going to come true."

What sealed his decision?

"Just the season I had,'' Floyd added. "The fact that my coaches gave me their blessing and said, 'Go. you're ready. good luck to you.' If I didn't get that from them, I wouldn't be leaving. I care about what my coaches think and how they feel about me. But I'm moving on now.''